Dog-Friendly Activities in Wanatah, IN

Indiana Dunes National Park is a dog-friendly attraction in Porter, IN. Explore this beautiful nature center and dunes area with your leashed pet. Dogs are permitted on all beaches in the park except the West Beach swimming area. Before leaving, be sure to stop by the Visitors Center to have Fido certified as an official National Park B.A.R.K. Ranger!

Indiana Dunes State Park consists of 2,182 acres of primitive, beautiful, historic and unique Hoosier landscape in Chesterton, IN. It lies at the north end of State Road 49 in Porter County, and includes more than 3 miles of beautiful beach along Lake Michigan’s southern shore. The national lakeshore beaches to the east of the park are pet friendly - Kemil Beach, Dunbar Beach and Lake View Beach. Dogs must be leashed at all times, even when swimming in the lake. Handlers allowing pets to chase birds or otherwise harass wildlife are subject to a citation. Pet handlers are responsible for carrying waste off the beach.

Connect with nature and Fido on the dog-friendly trails at Gabis Arboretum & Gardens in Valparaiso, IN. The Arboretum is part of the Purdue Northwest University and serves as a place for education, conservation and engagement. Please leash and clean up after your pets on the trails.

Woodland Dog Park in Portage, IN has two separate fenced sections for large and small dogs. Visitors will find shade trees, bench seating and fun agility equipment and obstacles to entertain athletic pups.

Bark Park at Creek Ridge County Park is a leash-free dog exercise area in Michigan City, IN. This 3-acre fenced park is an ideal spot to let Fido run and burn off his energy. Registration and the purchase of an annual or daily permit is required. Fees are paid on site. Owners must present their No-Leash Dog Permit upon request.

Coffee Creek Preserve is a pet-friendly destination in Chesterton, IN. Your leashed four-legged family member can tag along as you explore the area. The preserve has over 5 miles of trails that wind through the woods along the creek, beginning with a boardwalk and then meandering through the forest, crossing seven charming bridges along the way.

Designated as a National Natural Landmark, Cowles Bog Trail is a hiking path rich in plant diversity near Dune Acres. This 4.7-mile trail is located in Indiana Dunes National Park and is a popular destination for viewing Fall colors in the cooler months. Fido is welcome to explore the swamps, marshes, beaches and views of Lake Michigan along the hike, but dogs must be kept on a leash.

Located off Highway 35 between Michigan City and La Porte, IN, the Richardson Preserve—nicknamed the Hidden Hundred—is a dog-friendly natural area perfect for peaceful walks with your pup. With a mix of plant communities and nearly 300 native plant species, it’s a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting over 100 species, including hawks, owls, hummingbirds and woodpeckers.

Brincka Cross Gardens is pet-friendly. Developed by an artist, this beautiful garden in Michigan City welcomes dogs to join their owners on a walking tour. You and your pooch are welcome to explore four acres of landscaped gardens and 21 acres of pristine woodlands. The gardens boast hundreds of hostas, daffodils, crabapple trees, ornamental grasses, and more, all surrounding a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired house. Dog owners are reminded to clean up any mess that is left behind. Brincka Cross Gardens are open every day of the week from dawn until dusk.

DICK'S Sporting Goods at Porters Vale Shopping Center in Valparaiso, IN, is pet friendly. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are invited to browse the store alongside their owners. This chain sports store features a range of products from camping equipment and apparel to weights and accessories.

Bark Park at Bluhm County Park is a leash-free dog exercise area in Westville, IN. This 3-acre fenced park is an ideal spot to let Fido run and burn off his energy. Registration and the purchase of an annual or daily permit is required. Fees are paid on site. Owners must present their No-Leash Dog Permit upon request.

Come and experience the Gardens’ abundant nature and wildlife along the walking and hiking trails. We have multiple dog walking trails of varying length through the valley of Trail Creek. You can choose a short dog friendly trail if you are pressed for time, or go down multiple paths while enjoying the wonderful features the Gardens have to offer. Dogs must be leashed at all times. Please come prepared to clean up after your pet. Let’s keep the garden trails serene and clean for all visitors.

Take Fido for a scenic hike along the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail in Portage, IN. The area features multiple, pet-friendly hiking trails that allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of the dunes. Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail is also a great spot for bird watching. Parts of the trail system provide access to Lake Michigan.

Garwood Orchards in La Porte, IN has been a family farming business since 1831. This pet-friendly seasonal attraction welcomes leashed dogs to join their owners for a morning or afternoon picking apples. Well-behaved pets are welcome to hop aboard the tractor that will bring visitors out to the Upick orchard. Note that dogs aren't permitted in the market and must remain out of the berry and vegetable plant areas.

Fido is welcome to join you at an outdoor pet-friendly table at Ironwood Brewing Company, a brewery in Valparaiso, IN. Enjoy a variety of craft beers like IPAs, porters, lagers and more, brewed using local ingredients. Please note that table service isn’t available, so Fido will need to wait outside while you place your order inside.

Allow Fido to expend his energy at the large off-leash dog run in Lurh Park, La Porte, IN. Outside of the enclosed dog run, visitors will find a nature center, two picnic pavilions, a playground, a workout area, and walking trails.

Sunset Hill Farm County Park is a pet-friendly recreational area in Valparaiso, IN. Situated on 238 acres, this natural area on a former farm is home to wonderful wooded trails to explore with your leashed pooch. Dog owners are reminded to clean up after pups.

Well-behaved, leashed dogs are invited to visit Best Buy in Valparaiso, IN. This pet-friendly chain electronics store offers a range of products, from computers and appliances to video games and security systems.

Kemil Beach within the Indiana Dunes State Park in Portner, IN is pet friendly. Your leashed furry friend is welcome to swim and roll around in the sand as long as you clean up after him. Please note the parking lot can fill up quickly on summer weekends, and a state park fee is involved to enter. A trail is also available at the lot.

Tollestone Dunes Trail in Portage, IN is dog friendly. This quiet pathway is home to lots of trees along the way, perfect for a long exercise even on hot days. Leashed dogs are welcome, as long as they are cleaned up after and kept under control around other hikers.